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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider IATF urged to move up prisoners in gov't vaccination priority list

IATF urged to move up prisoners in gov't vaccination priority list

Published Jun 8, 2021 02:19 pm

Detained Senator Leila De Lima has called on the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) to move up Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in the government’s priority list for the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination.

In a letter to IATF chief implementor Secretary Carlito Galvez, De Lima reiterated the need for PDLs to be prioritized in the vaccination drive, as they struggle in cramped jails and correctional facilities around the country, making them more vulnerable to the COVID-19.

“This representation respectfully suggests that our PDLs likewise be considered to move up the list, particularly in areas with high COVID-19 incidence,” De Lima said in her letter.

“I implore the IATF to take into consideration the particular vulnerabilities in the case of the PDLs as justification for their immediate vaccination,” she added.

The senator noted minimum health standards are difficult to observe and implement in overcrowded national jails and detention facilities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The crowded jails result in less physical distancing. Poor nourishment and sanitation increase the vulnerability of the PDLs to COVID-19 infection,” she stressed.

“And the limited access to health services means that there is a greater chance that PDLs develop severe or possibly fatal cases of COVID-19 with very little support or treatment available,” De Lima noted.

She further pointed out that many PDLs are still being tried and have yet to be convicted of the charges against them.

“Thus, they still enjoy the constitutional presumption of innocence. It would be yet another injustice for them if they were to be infected by COVID-19 in spite of the availability of inoculation,” she added.

The lawmaker reminded the IATF that the government is responsible for the PDLs and has the duty to also ensure their well-being.

“The tragedy is that the PDLs do not have control of their situation. During their incarceration, they are wards of the State and almost exclusively depend on our government for their safety and welfare,” De Lima said.

Related Tags

prisoners Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs Leila de Lima covid-19 vaccination program IATF
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